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Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing keeps buildings warm but it is susceptible to problems over time. Problems such as leaking or broken glass or foggy windows may lead to loss of energy efficiency, expensive repairs, and health problems.
FENSA certified installers are able to assist you repair or maintain your double glazing to be energy efficient and meet the requirements of legal compliance and resale value.
Broken Panes
A window that is damaged can cause a lot of trouble, blocking light, air and possibly even pests from getting into your home. You can employ an expert to fix the broken window, however, you can do it yourself at a fraction of the cost a professional would charge.
You will need to remove the old window. Begin by putting on protective glasses, gloves for work and a dust mask to protect yourself from glass shards and lead dust. Install a sturdy surface that is well ventilated. Place a dropcloth under the work surface to catch any glass that falls when you take it off. You should keep a HEPA vacuum in your vicinity to clean up dust, debris, and hazardous waste while you work.
Use a utility blade to scrape the old glazing putty off after the old window has been removed. Be careful not to scratch the wood frame of the window. If the old putty is stubborn, use a heat gun to soften it before scraping it off with the knife. Wear safety goggles and be cautious about getting hot wood or glass fragments in your eyes while using a heatgun.
The next step is to prepare the frame to accommodate the new pane. Take measurements of the opening and subtract 1/16 inch in both directions to account for expansion and contraction of the wood. Then, ask the local hardware store cut you a piece double-strength plastic that fits the opening precisely. Dry-fit the glass to ensure it fits perfectly before putting it in.
After you have put in the new glass, apply a small amount of latex caulk around the outside of the opening to create an airtight seal. Then, you can install the glazing points to hold the new pane in the proper position. Typically, you will need two points along each edge for typical sizes of window glass.
After the new glaze is dry, you can paint it over to match the rest of the frame. If you are worried about cracks that could occur then you can use a heavy-duty masking tape to prevent cracks that appear superficial from becoming worse.
Damaged Frames
The first thing to do is examine the frame. You will need to have it repaired professionally when there are cracks or corrosion or rust, or if the frame is broken into two pieces. Metal frames aren't able to be glued together, and attempting to weld or solder them by yourself will cause permanent damage.
If the frame has not been badly damaged It can be cleaned with a tiny brush, some conservation detergent and water. This will eliminate any grease, dirt or dust that may have accumulated through the years. Cleaning antique frames with ornate carvings or gesso can reveal the original finish underneath the dust.
If the frame is damaged, you will require a pair of needle-nosed pliers and sandpaper as well as a small clamp. Remove the back as well as the photo and glass of the frame. Take care to remove the frame at the corners where you see brads or nails. If you can, open the joints and scrape away any glue that has been used and apply fresh glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that holds the glass panes in their wooden frames is an essential part of the energy efficiency of any historical building. It seals wood, bonds glass to frame, and sheds water to protect it caused by water over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound can cause air infiltration, which lowers insulation values and increases the cost of utility. Be sure to keep up with the maintenance work on your double-glazed windows to ensure that they run smoothly.
The weatherstripping may be worn or loose if you notice drafts around the window frames. This seal could reduce the cost of energy and improve comfort. If you hear loud sounds outside, such as traffic or machinery, it could indicate that the glass tape has worn out.
Remove old tape from the edge of the frame and scrub the area thoroughly. Apply a new piece of tape to the edge of the frame and press it firmly. The tape is available in any hardware store and is a cost-effective method to boost your double-glazed window's performance.
While the standard super glues are great for bonding metal, wood and other common materials, they aren't suitable for use on glass-based surfaces. Find a glass-based adhesive like Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of adhesive is designed to resist UV and moisture light which makes it a great alternative for fixing double-glazed windows.
Before you begin repairing your windows, you'll want to clean the the frame and sash by using an oil-based degreaser in order to ensure that the new glue is able to stick. Then, prepare the area to be painted by applying an oil-based primer. Be sure to prime the entire surface including the back of the sash, where it is positioned in the frame.
While you can fix many issues with your double-glazed windows, if they're severely damaged or don't offer adequate insulation, replacing them may be the best choice. Consult with an experienced glazier or handyman to make the best decision. Regular maintenance and repairs can keep your windows looking good for many years.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows occur when the window seal fails. This allows air to penetrate and slowly build up moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows may cause a variety of issues, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black staining or fungus. In addition to looking ugly it also leads to lower efficiency in energy use and more expensive heating or cooling costs. However, it is possible to fix the problem. Foggy windows are typically caused by a simple water buildup, so the initial step is to eliminate as much of the moisture as possible. This can be done by spraying a defogging agent or using shaving cream. If none of these solutions work, it's time to call in an expert.
The reason double pane windows function is due to the space between them. The space is filled with Krypton, or argon. These non-toxic gases are denser than air and slow heat transfer. If the gas has escaped this means that your windows are not properly insulated as they ought to be. Replace your windows with IGUs to stop the issue and improve your home's efficiency.
Some homeowners believe they must replace the entire window when fogging occurs, however this isn't the case in all cases. Some glass shops offer to replace the insulating unit (IGU) only, and without replacing the entire frame or the sash. Emergency Glazier is a less expensive option that's equally effective in fixing your windows.
Although there are some DIY ways to stop window condensation, such as defogging cream or shaving gel It is recommended to contact an expert to ensure that the job is completed safely and in a correct manner. A window repair expert will drill holes in the glass and then inject a cleaning solution into the space between the panes. They will then scrub the soiled surface and dry the interior of the window, thus restoring its appearance and functionality. Contact a local window replacement and repair expert to find out more about the process, or request a free in-home consultation today.